“Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.” – Psalm 100:4 (KJV)
Sometimes, life can offer us dire situations that leave us feeling beaten down, and it may feel like a hopeless cause. But the Word of God says in Psalm 42:11 (KJV), “ Why art thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”
When examining this Scripture, we can see clearly that King David, a man after God’s own heart, was never short of battles, and yes, he fought many of them. Because of his relationship with God, however, he was also never short of victories. Why? He constantly sought the face of God through prayer and praise. His hope in God never allowed him to lose his praise, even when faced with battles.
We also can count on God to build us up when situations confront us as long as we enter in with praise and thanksgiving, just as Psalm 100:4 admonishes. Yes, life will throw some curveballs at us, but God has already given us the antidote so that we can experience triumphs and victories over every situation despite how bleak the circumstances may look.
We should always be expectant, expecting God to show up at any time. We must stay rooted and grounded in His Word while creating an atmosphere to encourage His presence. We do this by putting on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. We make our deposits and watch God do what He promised in His Word.
In the book of Judges 13-16, Sampson had his highs, lows, and in-between moments, but because he kept his eye on the Lord through God’s promises throughout his life, he won major victories for the people of Israel.
Whatever you may be dealing with or may encounter this year, just know that Jesus Christ has won it all for you and me. It doesn’t matter the circumstances; God has it all in control. Just trust and believe that He will do it for you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for allowing us to experience You in different ways, even in our highs and lows, and for always giving us the desire to praise You in spite of whatever we are going through. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Read: Psalm 150; Isaiah 61:3
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 8; Matthew 9:14-38; Genesis 24
